What You Can Do to Reduce Your Risk of Gum Disease

Posted on Jun 8, 2017 10:15am PDT

Gum disease is a serious concern that you can easily prevent. Improving
your oral hygiene and receiving routine, professional dental cleanings
in Tyson’s Corner, VA, are the best ways to
reduce your chances of developing gum disease. These steps, in addition to improving your diet, can also prevent dental
cavities and weakened oral health. Read on to learn what you can do to
reduce your risk of developing gum disease.

Improve Your Oral Hygiene

One of the best ways to reduce your risk of developing gum disease is to
ensure that you practice excellent oral hygiene. Every day, brush your
teeth, morning and night, for at least two minutes. Floss between each
tooth once a day. Choose fluoridated toothpastes and mouthwashes to prevent
bacteria buildup and enamel breakdown. If you are unsure of the right
products or techniques to use, then call your local dental office for
information.

Visit Your Dentist

It is crucial to your oral and overall health to visit your dentist at
least once a year. This routine visit will include a dental cleaning and
checkup. Your dentist will inspect your teeth and gums for signs of tooth
decay and gum disease. He or she will use dental X-rays and a dental explorer—which
is a common dental probe with a curved hook—to examine your teeth
for plaque and tartar. A similar tool called a periodontal probe is used
to determine the level of space between your gum tissue and teeth. This
probe will help determine if you have gum disease and to what extent it
has progressed.

Change Your Diet

Your diet has a large influence on the health of your teeth and gums.
If you eat carbohydrate-rich foods and drink sugary juices and sodas,
then you are at a high risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease.
These items feed the bad bacteria that eat at your teeth’s enamel
and break down your gums. If you pair a poor diet with poor oral hygiene,
then you put yourself at a greater risk of developing gum disease.